The Use of Cash Compensation in Involuntary Resettlement

Fernando was excited about a large amount of money he had just received. He used to live and work by a nearby river, panning for gold on the riverbanks, until he was informed that he needed to vacate the area. A new hydropower plant was going to be built nearby, which involved flooding the area where he lived and worked. He was offered different options, including a new house in an area located further inland to replace his old house plus an agricultural project or small ranch, a corner store with living accommodations in a nearby town, or a voucher that he could use to acquire a suitable home, up to a certain amount of money. His mind, however, was set on receiving his compensation in cash; he was even having dreams about it…